13
RYDER
When I returned home, I was livid Ellie wasn't there. At first. Then I realized it was better this way. I needed time to calm down, to be prepared to question her and listen rationally and with a clear head. When she did return, basket in hand, I was ready.
Placing the basket on the table, she smiled. "I realize I must be truthful with you and tell you something--" Her smile and her voice faltered when she looked at me. "What's the matter?"
I sat at the end of the table, my hands in my lap. "I know what you did."
Her eyes widened in surprise. "News travels fast." She pulled out a chair and sat across from me, her posture straight, her chin up.
So she had hit the man. What was his name? Simms? Simmons.
"Yes, it can certainly follow you. Did you do it on purpose?" My tone was
